Scarlets boss Nigel Davies remains upbeat ahead of his side's European Cup clash with Irish giants Munster despite a defeat to Ulster on Friday which brought their eight-match unbeaten run to a halt.

Scarlets have been in impressive form this season, but their European ambition will be seriously tested by back-to-back games against Celtic League champions Munster.

Davies' team went down 24-17 to Ulster at Ravenhill on Friday, but the Scarlets head coach insists that the Welsh outfit have not lost any momentum ahead of their big European Cup test which starts this weekend.

"We still kept the momentum going - it was a positive performance overall in terms of our squad development," he said.

"We have no major injuries and have a fresh group of players going into the game next week, some of our internationals have had a bit of time off and we've got some other players who've been rested this weekend," he pointed out.

However, this does not mean that Scarlets will be taking this assignment lightly. Davies is all too aware of the significance of the next few weeeks in the context of the season.

"The game next weekend is an important one for the whole region, our players, coaches and supporters but as we've said before we'll just work hard in preparation as we do for each game, keep cool heads and our feet firmly on the ground next week," he said.

Scarlets are desperate to capitalise on their encouraging start to the season and Davies confirmed that there will be no lack of motivation when they run out on home turf this weekend.

He said: "We'll take focus and our confidence from the performances we've delivered this season.

"It's a big occasion next Saturday and I know this group and have the ambition and commitment to give all they can to the Scarlet shirt. They will bring a mental and physical toughness to deliver the very best they can to the field on Saturday," added the Scarlets boss.